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April 10, 2017

Suspect Arrested in Child Molestation Case

SCPD is asking for the public’s help in identifying any additional victims of this suspected child molester.

Monday, April 10, 2017, Gerardo Garcia Gandara, age 53, of Santa Cruz, was arraigned on multiple counts of lewd acts with a minor and sexual penetration of a juvenile The arrest stemmed from allegations brought by Gandara's female relatives. The sexual abuse occurred in Santa Cruz while the children were in Gandara’s home on Chestnut Street starting in 1978 until 2007. The victim’s ages ranged from 3 years old to 11 years old.

Detectives investigated the allegations, contacted and arrested Gerardo Gandara on Tuesday, April 4, 2017. Santa Cruz Police believe there are more victims of sexual abuse by Gerardo Gandara in the area. Detectives would like those victims or their family members to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department.

We are asking for the public’s help in identifying any additional victims with whom Gerardo Garcia Gandara may have had contact. Concerned parents and other victims, please call, the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit at (831) 420-5820.